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Magni G, Riboldi B, Ceruti S. Human Glial Cells as Innovative Targets for the Therapy of Central Nervous System Pathologies. Cells 2024; 13:606. [PMID: 38607045 PMCID: PMC11011741 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In vitro and preclinical in vivo research in the last 35 years has clearly highlighted the crucial physiopathological role of glial cells, namely astrocytes/microglia/oligodendrocytes and satellite glial cells/Schwann cells in the central and peripheral nervous system, respectively. Several possible pharmacological targets to various neurodegenerative disorders and painful conditions have therefore been successfully identified, including receptors and enzymes, and mediators of neuroinflammation. However, the translation of these promising data to a clinical setting is often hampered by both technical and biological difficulties, making it necessary to perform experiments on human cells and models of the various diseases. In this review we will, therefore, summarize the most relevant data on the contribution of glial cells to human pathologies and on their possible pharmacological modulation based on data obtained in post-mortem tissues and in iPSC-derived human brain cells and organoids. The possibility of an in vivo visualization of glia reaction to neuroinflammation in patients will be also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefania Ceruti
- Laboratory of Pain Therapy and Neuroimmunology, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.M.); (B.R.)
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Helmold BR, Pauss KE, Ozdinler PH. TDP-43 protein interactome informs about perturbed canonical pathways and may help develop personalized medicine approaches for patients with TDP-43 pathology. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103769. [PMID: 37714405 PMCID: PMC10872580 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Transactive response DNA binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) pathology is a common proteinopathy observed among a broad spectrum of patients with neurodegenerative disease, regardless of the mutation. This suggests that protein-protein interactions of TDP-43 with other proteins may in part be responsible for the pathology. To gain better insights, we investigated TDP-43-binding proteins in each domain and correlated these interactions with canonical pathways. These investigations revealed key cellular events that are involved and are important at each domain and suggested previously identified compounds to modulate key aspects of these canonical pathways. Our approach proposes that personalized medicine approaches, which focus on perturbed cellular mechanisms would be feasible in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R Helmold
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Kate E Pauss
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - P Hande Ozdinler
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery, Center for Developmental Therapeutics, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60611, USA; Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Feinberg School of Medicine, Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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Rubino V, La Rosa G, Pipicelli L, Carriero F, Damiano S, Santillo M, Terrazzano G, Ruggiero G, Mondola P. Insights on the Multifaceted Roles of Wild-Type and Mutated Superoxide Dismutase 1 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Pathogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1747. [PMID: 37760050 PMCID: PMC10525763 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor neurodegenerative disease. Cell damage in ALS is the result of many different, largely unknown, pathogenetic mechanisms. Astrocytes and microglial cells play a critical role also for their ability to enhance a deranged inflammatory response. Excitotoxicity, due to excessive glutamate levels and increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration, has also been proposed to play a key role in ALS pathogenesis/progression. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) behave as key second messengers for multiple receptor/ligand interactions. ROS-dependent regulatory networks are usually mediated by peroxides. Superoxide Dismutase 1 (SOD1) physiologically mediates intracellular peroxide generation. About 10% of ALS subjects show a familial disease associated with different gain-of-function SOD1 mutations. The occurrence of sporadic ALS, not clearly associated with SOD1 defects, has been also described. SOD1-dependent pathways have been involved in neuron functional network as well as in immune-response regulation. Both, neuron depolarization and antigen-dependent T-cell activation mediate SOD1 exocytosis, inducing increased interaction of the enzyme with a complex molecular network involved in the regulation of neuron functional activity and immune response. Here, alteration of SOD1-dependent pathways mediating increased intracellular Ca2+ levels, altered mitochondria functions and defective inflammatory process regulation have been proposed to be relevant for ALS pathogenesis/progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Rubino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Giuliana La Rosa
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.R.); (L.P.); (S.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Luca Pipicelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.R.); (L.P.); (S.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Flavia Carriero
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università della Basilicata, Via dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (F.C.); (G.T.)
| | - Simona Damiano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.R.); (L.P.); (S.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Mariarosaria Santillo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.R.); (L.P.); (S.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Terrazzano
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università della Basilicata, Via dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (F.C.); (G.T.)
| | - Giuseppina Ruggiero
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Paolo Mondola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.L.R.); (L.P.); (S.D.); (M.S.)
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Barodia K, Cheruku SP, Kanwal A, Menon A, Rajeevan R, Rukade A, Kumar Shenoy RU, Prabhu C, Sharma V, Divya KP, Sumalatha S, Nayak Y, Kumar N. Effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on exercise and dexamethasone-induced functional impairment in skeletal muscles. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2021; 13:100503. [PMID: 34974956 PMCID: PMC8814402 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic administration of steroids like dexamethasone produces symptoms including weight loss and skeletal muscle dysfunction. Similar events are reported in chronic or high-intensity exercises, that can lead to fatigue and muscle damage. Objective In the present study, the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract was evaluated against dexamethasone (Dex) and exercise (Exe)-induced muscle changes in rats. Materials and methods Six groups each containing 6 rats, namely normal, Dex control, Exe Control, Dex + M. oleifera leaf extract (300mg/kgp.o.), Dex + Exe, Dex + Exe + M. oleifera leaf extract were assessed in the study. Dex was administered at 0.6 mg/kg i.p. daily for 7 days. Exercise was given for a total of 10 days after 30 minutes of dosing using treadmill equipment for 900 seconds at speed 18 m/min. Animals were assessed for variation in body weight, muscular endurance using treadmill, locomotor activity using actophotometer, motor coordination using rotarod on day zero, and day seven. Hemidiaphragm of rats were isolated and used for evaluation of the glucose uptake. Gastrocnemius muscle was isolated and subjected to hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results Dex and Exe control animals showed a significant decrease in skeletal muscle activity when compared to normal control animals in the actophotometer test. Improvement in endurance were seen in Dex + M. oleifera leaf extract, and Dex + exercise + M. oleifera leaf extract groups compared to Dex control group. Improvement in locomotor activity was seen in Dex group subjected to exercise and was significant when treated with M. oleifera leaf extract. Histology reports were in accordance with the functional parameters. Conclusion M. oleifera leaf extract supplemented with exercise showed a reversal in the dexamethasone-induced functional impairment in skeletal muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalgi Barodia
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Sri Pragnya Cheruku
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Abhinav Kanwal
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India; Department of Pharmacology, All India, Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhatinda, 151001, Punjab, India
| | - Aayush Menon
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Rutu Rajeevan
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Aniket Rukade
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Raghavendra Udaya Kumar Shenoy
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Chaitali Prabhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Vaibhav Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - K P Divya
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Suhani Sumalatha
- Department of Anatomy, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Yogendra Nayak
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India.
| | - Nitesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur (NIPER-H), Export Promotions Industrial Park (EPIP), Industrial Area Hajipur, Vaishali, 844102, Bihar, India.
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Ciervo Y, Gatto N, Allen C, Grierson A, Ferraiuolo L, Mead RJ, Shaw PJ. Adipose-derived stem cells protect motor neurons and reduce glial activation in both in vitro and in vivo models of ALS. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 21:413-433. [PMID: 33869658 PMCID: PMC8044387 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative condition for which new therapeutic options are urgently needed. We injected GFP+ adipose-derived stem cells (EGFP-ADSCs) directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of transgenic SOD1G93A mice, a well-characterized model of familial ALS. Despite short-term survival of the injected cells and limited engraftment efficiency, EGFP-ADSCs improved motor function and delayed disease onset by promoting motor neuron (MN) survival and reducing glial activation. We then tested the in vitro neuroprotective potential of mouse ADSCs in astrocyte/MN co-cultures where ALS astrocytes show neurotoxicity. ADSCs were able to rescue MN death caused by ALS astrocytes derived from symptomatic SOD1G93A mice. Further, ADSCs were found to reduce the inflammatory signature of ALS astrocytes by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory mediators and inducing the secretion of neuroprotective factors. Finally, mouse ADSCs were able to protect MNs from the neurotoxicity mediated by human induced astrocytes (iAstrocytes) derived from patients with either sporadic or familial ALS, thus for the first time showing the potential therapeutic translation of ADSCs across the spectrum of human ALS. These data in two translational models of ALS show that, through paracrine mechanisms, ADSCs support MN survival and modulate the toxic microenvironment that contributes to neurodegeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Ciervo
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Noemi Gatto
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Chloe Allen
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Andrew Grierson
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Laura Ferraiuolo
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Richard J. Mead
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
- Corresponding author: Richard J. Mead, PhD, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK.
| | - Pamela J. Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
- Corresponding author: Pamela J. Shaw, Professor, Dame, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Rd., Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK.
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Neuroprotective Effect of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on Motoneurons of the Oculomotor System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020814. [PMID: 33467517 PMCID: PMC7830098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was initially characterized as a potent angiogenic factor based on its activity on the vascular system. However, it is now well established that VEGF also plays a crucial role as a neuroprotective factor in the nervous system. A deficit of VEGF has been related to motoneuronal degeneration, such as that occurring in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Strikingly, motoneurons of the oculomotor system show lesser vulnerability to neurodegeneration in ALS compared to other motoneurons. These motoneurons presented higher amounts of VEGF and its receptor Flk-1 than other brainstem pools. That higher VEGF level could be due to an enhanced retrograde input from their target muscles, but it can also be produced by the motoneurons themselves and act in an autocrine way. By contrast, VEGF’s paracrine supply from the vicinity cells, such as glial cells, seems to represent a minor source of VEGF for brainstem motoneurons. In addition, ocular motoneurons experiment an increase in VEGF and Flk-1 level in response to axotomy, not observed in facial or hypoglossal motoneurons. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the differences in VEGF availability that could contribute to the higher resistance of extraocular motoneurons to injury and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Van Damme P, Tilkin P, Mercer KJ, Terryn J, D'Hondt A, Herne N, Tousseyn T, Claeys KG, Thal DR, Zachrisson O, Almqvist P, Nuttin B, Jerling M, Bernadotte F, Haegerstrand A, Robberecht W. Intracerebroventricular delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a phase I study. Brain Commun 2020; 2:fcaa160. [PMID: 33977260 PMCID: PMC8099230 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcaa160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the feasibility, safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of intracerebroventricular delivery of recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In this phase I study in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the study drug was delivered using an implantable programmable pump connected to a catheter inserted in the frontal horn of the lateral cerebral ventricle. A first cohort received open label vascular endothelial growth factor (0.2, 0.8 and 2 µg/day), a second cohort received placebo, 0.8 or 2 µg/day of study dug. After the 3-month study period, all patients could participate in an open label extension study. In total, 18 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, seen at the University Hospitals in Leuven were included. The surgical procedure was well tolerated in most patients. One patient had transient postoperative seizures, due to an ischemic lesion along the catheter tract. The first 3-month study period was completed by 15/18 patients. Administration of 2 µg/day vascular endothelial growth factor resulted in sustained detectable levels in cerebrospinal fluid. A pulmonary embolus occurred in 3 patients, in 1 patient in the first 3-month study, and in 2 patients during the open label extension study. The study drug was well tolerated in the other patients, for up to 6 years in the open label extension study. Our study shows that intracerebroventricular administration of 2 µg/day of vascular endothelial growth factor to patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is feasible, results in detectable cerebrospinal fluid levels and is well tolerated in most patients. The most common serious adverse event was a pulmonary embolus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Petra Tilkin
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Joke Terryn
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ann D'Hondt
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Thomas Tousseyn
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristl G Claeys
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dietmar R Thal
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Bart Nuttin
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Wim Robberecht
- Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Silva-Hucha S, Carrero-Rojas G, Fernández de Sevilla ME, Benítez-Temiño B, Davis-López de Carrizosa MA, Pastor AM, Morcuende S. Sources and lesion-induced changes of VEGF expression in brainstem motoneurons. Brain Struct Funct 2020; 225:1033-1053. [PMID: 32189115 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-020-02057-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Motoneurons of the oculomotor system show lesser vulnerability to neurodegeneration compared to other cranial motoneurons, as seen in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is involved in motoneuronal protection. As previously shown, motoneurons innervating extraocular muscles present a higher amount of VEGF and its receptor Flk-1 compared to facial or hypoglossal motoneurons. Therefore, we aimed to study the possible sources of VEGF to brainstem motoneurons, such as glial cells and target muscles. We also studied the regulation of VEGF in response to axotomy in ocular, facial, and hypoglossal motor nuclei. Basal VEGF expression in astrocytes and microglial cells of the cranial motor nuclei was low. Although the presence of VEGF in the different target muscles for brainstem motoneurons was similar, the presynaptic element of the ocular neuromuscular junction showed higher amounts of Flk-1, which could result in greater efficiency in the capture of the factor by oculomotor neurons. Seven days after axotomy, a clear glial reaction was observed in all the brainstem nuclei, but the levels of the neurotrophic factor remained low in glial cells. Only the injured motoneurons of the oculomotor system showed an increase in VEGF and Flk-1, but such an increase was not detected in axotomized facial or hypoglossal motoneurons. Taken together, our findings suggest that the ocular motoneurons themselves upregulate VEGF expression in response to lesion. In conclusion, the low VEGF expression observed in glial cells suggests that these cells are not the main source of VEGF for brainstem motoneurons. Therefore, the higher VEGF expression observed in motoneurons innervating extraocular muscles is likely due either to the fact that this factor is more avidly taken up from the target muscles, in basal conditions, or is produced by these motoneurons themselves, and acts in an autocrine manner after axotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Silva-Hucha
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Génova Carrero-Rojas
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Beatriz Benítez-Temiño
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Angel M Pastor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Sara Morcuende
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.
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Chang J, Yang B, Zhou Y, Yin C, Liu T, Qian H, Xing G, Wang S, Li F, Zhang Y, Chen D, Aschner M, Lu R. Acute Methylmercury Exposure and the Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α Signaling Pathway under Normoxic Conditions in the Rat Brain and Astrocytes in Vitro. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2019; 127:127006. [PMID: 31850806 PMCID: PMC6957278 DOI: 10.1289/ehp5139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, methylmercury (MeHg) induces toxic effects in the nervous system, one of its main targets. However, the exact mechanisms of its neurotoxicity have not been fully elucidated. Hypoxia-inducible factor- 1 α (HIF- 1 α ), a transcription factor, plays a crucial role in adaptive and cytoprotective responses in cells and is involved in cell survival, proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, glucose metabolism, erythropoiesis, and other physiological activities. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to explore the role of HIF- 1 α in response to acute MeHg exposure in rat brain and primary cultured astrocytes to improve understanding of the mechanisms of MeHg-induced neurotoxicity and the development of effective neuroprotective strategies. METHODS Primary rat astrocytes were treated with MeHg (0 - 10 μ M ) for 0.5 h . Cell proliferation and cytotoxicity were assessed with a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and a lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay, respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were analyzed to assess the level of oxidative stress using 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) fluorescence. HIF- 1 α , and its downstream proteins, glucose transporter 1 (GLUT-1), erythropoietin (EPO), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) were analyzed by means of Western blotting. Real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of HIF- 1 α mRNA. Pretreatment with protein synthesis inhibitor (CHX), proteasome inhibitor (MG132), or proline hydroxylase inhibitor (DHB) were applied to explore the possible mechanisms of HIF- 1 α inhibition by MeHg. To investigate the role of HIF- 1 α in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity, cobalt chloride (CoC l 2 ), 2-methoxyestradiol (2-MeOE2), small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection and adenovirus overexpression were used. Pretreatment with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and vitamin E (Trolox) were used to investigate the putative role of oxidative stress in MeHg-induced alterations in HIF- 1 α levels. The expression of HIF- 1 α and related downstream proteins was detected in adult rat brain exposed to MeHg (0 - 10 mg / kg ) for 0.5 h in vivo. RESULTS MeHg caused lower cell proliferation and higher cytotoxicity in primary rat astrocytes in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. In comparison with the control cells, exposure to 10 μ M MeHg for 0.5 h significantly inhibited the expression of astrocytic HIF- 1 α , and the downstream genes GLUT-1, EPO, and VEGF-A (p < 0.05 ), in the absence of a significant decrease in HIF- 1 α mRNA levels. When protein synthesis was inhibited by CHX, MeHg promoted the degradation rate of HIF- 1 α . MG132 and DHB significantly blocked the MeHg-induced decrease in HIF- 1 α expression (p < 0.05 ). Overexpression of HIF- 1 α significantly attenuated the decline in MeHg-induced cell proliferation, whereas the inhibition of HIF- 1 α significantly increased the decline in cell proliferation (p < 0.05 ). NAC and Trolox, two established antioxidants, reversed the MeHg-induced decline in HIF- 1 α protein levels and the decrease in cell proliferation (p < 0.05 ). MeHg suppressed the expression of HIF- 1 α and related downstream target proteins in adult rat brain. DISCUSSION MeHg induced a significant reduction in HIF- 1 α protein by activating proline hydroxylase (PHD) and the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) in primary rat astrocytes. Additionally, ROS scavenging by antioxidants played a neuroprotective role via increasing HIF- 1 α expression in response to MeHg toxicity. Moreover, we established that up-regulation of HIF- 1 α might serve to mitigate the acute toxicity of MeHg in astrocytes, affording a novel therapeutic target for future exploration. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP5139.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chang
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Bobo Yang
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Changsheng Yin
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Hai Qian
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Guangwei Xing
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Suhua Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yubin Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Da Chen
- School of Environment, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Rongzhu Lu
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Center for Experimental Research, Kunshan Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
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10
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Ashok BS, Ajith TA, Sivanesan S. Hypoxia-inducible factors as neuroprotective agent in Alzheimer's disease. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2017; 44:327-334. [PMID: 28004401 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Beta amyloid (Aβ)-42 peptide and phosphorylated tau protein have been demonstrated as the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). A gradual decline of oxygen and glucose supply to the brain during aging or hypoxia was manifested as a contributing factor to hypometabolism. The brain regions susceptible to hypometabolism are the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex and cognition-associated neocortical regions like parietal, temporal and frontal cortex. In AD patients, the brain regions with hypometabolism can trigger overexpression of amyloid precursor protein and decrease the clearance of Aβ. Aβ and hypoxia can evoke inflammation, oxidative stress and finally neuronal cell death. Among the transcription factors involved in the compensatory mechanism, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) has a major role in the cellular adaptation by inducing the expression of several proteins, including vascular endothelial growth factor, erythropoietin and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Therefore, maintaining the HIF-1α level by inhibiting the prolyl 4-hydroxylase was effective to attenuate the nerve damage during hypoxia and postpone the incidence of AD. Agents such as iron chelators, and heavy metals like cobalt and nickel were demonstrated to be effective in maintaining the HIF-1α level in the nerve. This review article discusses the possible role of HIF-1α as a neuroprotector in AD and the future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Sundra Ashok
- Department of Biochemistry, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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11
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Sweeney MD, Sagare AP, Zlokovic BV. Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of neurovascular dysfunction in mild dementia and Alzheimer's disease. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2015; 35:1055-68. [PMID: 25899298 PMCID: PMC4640280 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2015.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2014] [Revised: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 03/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of age-related dementias. In addition to genetics, environment, and lifestyle, growing evidence supports vascular contributions to dementias including dementia because of AD. Alzheimer's disease affects multiple cell types within the neurovascular unit (NVU), including brain vascular cells (endothelial cells, pericytes, and vascular smooth muscle cells), glial cells (astrocytes and microglia), and neurons. Thus, identifying and integrating biomarkers of the NVU cell-specific responses and injury with established AD biomarkers, amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau, has a potential to contribute to better understanding of the disease process in dementias including AD. Here, we discuss the existing literature on cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of the NVU cell-specific responses during early stages of dementia and AD. We suggest that the clinical usefulness of established AD biomarkers, Aβ and tau, could be further improved by developing an algorithm that will incorporate biomarkers of the NVU cell-specific responses and injury. Such biomarker algorithm could aid in early detection and intervention as well as identify novel treatment targets to delay disease onset, slow progression, and/or prevent AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie D Sweeney
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Abhay P Sagare
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Berislav V Zlokovic
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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12
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Yamadera M, Fujimura H, Inoue K, Toyooka K, Mori C, Hirano H, Sakoda S. Microvascular disturbance with decreased pericyte coverage is prominent in the ventral horn of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2015; 16:393-401. [DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2015.1011663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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13
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Poppe L, Rué L, Robberecht W, Van Den Bosch L. Translating biological findings into new treatment strategies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Exp Neurol 2014; 262 Pt B:138-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Revised: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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14
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Van Damme P, Robberecht W. Developments in treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis via intracerebroventricular or intrathecal delivery. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:955-63. [PMID: 24816247 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.912275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral scleroses (ALS) are neurodegenerative disorders primarily affecting the motor system. These incurable disorders are relentlessly progressive and typically limit survival to 2 - 5 years after disease onset. An improved knowledge about disease-causing genes, disease proteins and pathways has revealed considerable heterogeneity in ALS. Novel targeted therapies are being developed, but getting these beyond the BBB remains a challenge. AREAS COVERED The authors review the intracerebroventricular and intrathecal delivery of drugs for the treatment of ALS in preclinical and clinical studies. EXPERT OPINION Lack of BBB permeability should not hold back the development of promising treatments for ALS, as the available evidence suggest that direct intrathecal or intracerebroventricular administration of drug is a feasible delivery route in patients with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Van Damme
- KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND) , Leuven , Belgium
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15
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Pronto-Laborinho AC, Pinto S, de Carvalho M. Roles of vascular endothelial growth factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:947513. [PMID: 24987705 PMCID: PMC4022172 DOI: 10.1155/2014/947513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal devastating neurodegenerative disorder, involving progressive degeneration of motor neurons in spinal cord, brainstem, and motor cortex. Riluzole is the only drug approved in ALS but it only confers a modest improvement in survival. In spite of a high number of clinical trials no other drug has proved effectiveness. Recent studies support that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), originally described as a key angiogenic factor, also plays a key role in the nervous system, including neurogenesis, neuronal survival, neuronal migration, and axon guidance. VEGF has been used in exploratory clinical studies with promising results in ALS and other neurological disorders. Although VEGF is a very promising compound, translating the basic science breakthroughs into clinical practice is the major challenge ahead. VEGF-B, presenting a single safety profile, protects motor neurons from degeneration in ALS animal models and, therefore, it will be particularly interesting to test its effects in ALS patients. In the present paper the authors make a brief description of the molecular properties of VEGF and its receptors and review its different features and therapeutic potential in the nervous system/neurodegenerative disease, particularly in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Catarina Pronto-Laborinho
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular (IMM), Translational Clinical Physiology Unit, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Pinto
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular (IMM), Translational Clinical Physiology Unit, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular (IMM), Translational Clinical Physiology Unit, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences, Hospital Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
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16
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Lladó J, Tolosa L, Olmos G. Cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the neuroprotective effects of VEGF on motoneurons. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:181. [PMID: 24155688 PMCID: PMC3803143 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), originally described as a factor with a regulatory role in vascular growth and development, it is also known for its direct effects on neuronal cells. The discovery in the past decade that transgenic mice expressing reduced levels of VEGF developed late-onset motoneuron pathology, reminiscent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), opened a new field of research on this disease. VEGF has been shown to protect motoneurons from excitotoxic death, which is a relevant mechanism involved in motoneuron degeneration in ALS. Thus, VEGF delays motoneuron degeneration and increases survival in animal models of ALS. VEGF exerts its anti-excitotoxic effects on motoneurons through molecular mechanisms involving the VEGF receptor-2 resulting in the activation of the PI3-K/Akt signaling pathway, upregulation of GluR2 subunit of AMPA receptors, inhibition of p38MAPK, and induction of the anti-apoptotic molecule Bcl-2. In addition, VEGF acts on astrocytes to reduce astroglial activation and to induce the release of growth factors. The potential use of VEGF as a therapeutic tool in ALS is counteracted by its vascular effects and by its short effective time frame. More studies are needed to assess the optimal isoform, route of administration, and time frame for using VEGF in the treatment of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerònia Lladó
- Grup de Neurobiologia Celular, Departament de Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears Palma de Mallorca, Spain ; Institut Universitari d'Investigacions en Ciències de la Salut (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears Palma de Mallorca, Spain
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17
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Sambataro F, Pennuto M. Cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous toxicity in polyglutamine diseases. Prog Neurobiol 2012; 97:152-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2011.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2011] [Revised: 10/21/2011] [Accepted: 10/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Zhang Z, Yan J, Chang Y, ShiDu Yan S, Shi H. Hypoxia inducible factor-1 as a target for neurodegenerative diseases. Curr Med Chem 2012; 18:4335-43. [PMID: 21861815 DOI: 10.2174/092986711797200426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2011] [Revised: 07/18/2011] [Accepted: 07/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is a transcriptional factor responsible for cellular and tissue adaption to low oxygen tension. HIF-1, a heterodimer consisting of a constitutively expressed β subunit and an oxygen-regulated α subunit, regulates a series of genes that participate in angiogenesis, iron metabolism, glucose metabolism, and cell proliferation/survival. The activity of HIF-1 is controlled by post-translational modifications on different amino acid residues of its subunits, mainly the alpha subunit. Besides in ischemic stroke (see review [1]), emerging evidence has revealed that HIF-1 activity and expression of its down-stream genes, such as vascular endothelial growth factor and erythropoietin, are altered in a range of neurodegenerative diseases. At the same time, experimental and clinical evidence has demonstrated that regulating HIF-1 might ameliorate the cellular and tissue damage in the neurodegenerative diseases. These new findings suggest HIF-1 as a potential medicinal target for the neurodegenerative diseases. This review focuses on HIF-1α protein modifications and HIF-1's potential neuroprotective roles in Alzheimer's (AD), Parkinson's (PD), Huntington's diseases (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, USA
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19
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Kliem MA, Heeke BL, Franz CK, Radovitskiy I, Raore B, Barrow E, Snyder BR, Federici T, Kaye Spratt S, Boulis NM. Intramuscular administration of a VEGF zinc finger transcription factor activator (VEGF-ZFP-TF) improves functional outcomes in SOD1 rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 12:331-9. [PMID: 21864053 DOI: 10.3109/17482968.2011.574142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by motor neuron loss leading to paralysis and death. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has angiogenic, neurotrophic, and neuroprotective properties, and has preserved neuromuscular function and protected motor neurons in rats engineered to overexpress the human gene coding the mutated G93A form of the superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1). We assessed the effects of intramuscular administration of a plasmid that encodes a zinc finger protein transcription factor (ZFP-TF) engineered to induce VEGF expression in the SOD1 rat model of ALS. Weekly injections of the plasmid preserved ipsilateral hindlimb grip strength and markedly improved rotarod performance in SOD1 rats compared to the vehicle-treated group. The number of motor neurons and the proportion of innervated neuromuscular junctions were similar in both groups. In conclusion, our data suggest that administration of the VEGF-ZFP-TF may be neuroprotective and has potential as a safe and practical approach for the management of motor disability in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele A Kliem
- Department of Neurosurgery , Emory University, Atlanta , Georgia, USA
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20
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Kulshreshtha D, Vijayalakshmi K, Alladi PA, Sathyaprabha T, Nalini A, Raju T. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Attenuates Neurodegenerative Changes in the NSC-34 Motor Neuron Cell Line Induced by Cerebrospinal Fluid of Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients. NEURODEGENER DIS 2011; 8:322-30. [DOI: 10.1159/000323718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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21
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Zingg JM, Meydani M, Azzi A. alpha-Tocopheryl phosphate--an active lipid mediator? Mol Nutr Food Res 2010; 54:679-92. [PMID: 20169583 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.200900404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol, alphaT) derivative, alpha-tocopheryl phosphate (alphaTP), is detectable in small amounts in plasma, tissues, and cultured cells. Studies done in vitro and in vivo suggest that alphaT can become phosphorylated and alphaTP dephosphorylated, suggesting the existence of enzyme(s) with alphaT kinase or alphaTP phosphatase activity, respectively. As a supplement in animal studies, alphaTP can reach plasma concentrations similar to alphaT and only a part is dephosphorylated; thus, alphaTP may act both as pro-vitamin E, but also as phosphorylated form of vitamin E with possibly novel regulatory activities. Many effects of alphaTP have been described: in the test tube alphaTP modulates the activity of several enzymes; in cell culture alphaTP affects proliferation, apoptosis, signal transduction, and gene expression; in animal studies alphaTP prevents atherosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion injury, and induces hippocampal long-term potentiation. At the molecular level, alphaTP may act as a cofactor for enzymes, as an active lipid mediator similar to other phosphorylated lipids, or indirectly by altering membrane characteristics such as lipid rafts, fluidity, and curvature. In this review, the molecular and cellular activities of alphaTP are examined and the possible functions of alphaTP as a natural compound, cofactor and active lipid mediator involved in signal transduction and gene expression discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Marc Zingg
- JM USDA-Human Nutr. Res. Ctr. On Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
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22
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Bento-Abreu A, Van Damme P, Van Den Bosch L, Robberecht W. The neurobiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Eur J Neurosci 2010; 31:2247-65. [PMID: 20529130 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07260.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a degenerative disease affecting the motor neurons. In spite of our growing insights into its biology, it remains a lethal condition. The identification of the cause of several of the familial forms of ALS allowed generation of models to study this disease both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we summarize what is known about the pathogenic mechanisms of ALS induced by hereditary mutations, and attempt to identify the relevance of these findings for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of the sporadic form of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Bento-Abreu
- Laboratory for Neurobiology, Experimental Neurology, K.U.Leuven, Herestraat, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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23
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Magnussen AL, Rennel ES, Hua J, Bevan HS, Beazley Long N, Lehrling C, Gammons M, Floege J, Harper SJ, Agostini HT, Bates DO, Churchill AJ. VEGF-A165b is cytoprotective and antiangiogenic in the retina. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2010; 51:4273-81. [PMID: 20237249 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.09-4296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A number of key ocular diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, are characterized by localized areas of epithelial or endothelial damage, which can ultimately result in the growth of fragile new blood vessels, vitreous hemorrhage, and retinal detachment. VEGF-A(165), the principal neovascular agent in ocular angiogenic conditions, is formed by proximal splice site selection in its terminal exon 8. Alternative splicing of this exon results in an antiangiogenic isoform, VEGF-A(165)b, which is downregulated in diabetic retinopathy. Here the authors investigate the antiangiogenic activity of VEGF(165)b and its effect on retinal epithelial and endothelial cell survival. METHODS VEGF-A(165)b was injected intraocularly in a mouse model of retinal neovascularization (oxygen-induced retinopathy [OIR]). Cytotoxicity and cell migration assays were used to determine the effect of VEGF-A(165)b. RESULTS VEGF-A(165)b dose dependently inhibited angiogenesis (IC(50), 12.6 pg/eye) and retinal endothelial migration induced by 1 nM VEGF-A(165) across monolayers in culture (IC(50), 1 nM). However, it also acts as a survival factor for endothelial cells and retinal epithelial cells through VEGFR2 and can stimulate downstream signaling. Furthermore, VEGF-A(165)b injection, while inhibiting neovascular proliferation in the eye, reduced the ischemic insult in OIR (IC(50), 2.6 pg/eye). Unlike bevacizumab, pegaptanib did not interact directly with VEGF-A(165)b. CONCLUSIONS The survival effects of VEGF-A(165)b signaling can protect the retina from ischemic damage. These results suggest that VEGF-A(165)b may be a useful therapeutic agent in ischemia-induced angiogenesis and a cytoprotective agent for retinal pigment epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette L Magnussen
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Bristol Heart Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Shen YX, Fan ZH, Zhao JG, Zhang P. The application of platelet-rich plasma may be a novel treatment for central nervous system diseases. Med Hypotheses 2009; 73:1038-40. [PMID: 19767153 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2009.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2009] [Revised: 05/07/2009] [Accepted: 05/12/2009] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As a potential biological product, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been widely utilized in the areas of oral and maxillofacial reconstruction, bone and soft tissue restoration and wound healing. A recent study reported that the application of PRP on interrupted sciatic nerve could promote remyelinization of peripheral nerve. This renovated a notion that the application of PRP might extend to the nervous system. Most central nervous system (CNS) diseases have a series of common pathological changes in the later period of diseases which induce neurons and glia apoptosis and aggravate neurological dysfunction. It has been demonstrated that the potent restorative function of PRP is mainly based on neurotrophic capacity of preparation rich in growth factors (PRGFs) and scaffolding effect of platelet-rich gel (PRG), all of which could be certified to ameliorate the pathological process of CNS diseases. In view of this, we propose a hypothesis that the application of PRP and its derivatives might provide a novel therapeutic approach for CNS diseases, especially for traumatic brain or spinal cord injury, autoimmune diseases and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Xin Shen
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province 215004, PR China
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25
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Ribatti D. Napoleone Ferrara and the Saga of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 15:1-8. [DOI: 10.1080/10623320802092377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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26
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Cronin S, Greenway MJ, Andersen PM, Hardiman O. Screening of hypoxia-inducible genes in sporadic ALS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 9:299-305. [DOI: 10.1080/17482960802160297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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27
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Puerta A, Bergquist J. Development of a CE-MS method to analyze components of the potential biomarker vascular endothelial growth factor 165. Electrophoresis 2009; 30:2355-65. [DOI: 10.1002/elps.200800738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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28
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Tolosa L, Mir M, Olmos G, Lladó J. Vascular endothelial growth factor protects motoneurons from serum deprivation–induced cell death through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-mediated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibition. Neuroscience 2009; 158:1348-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.10.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2008] [Revised: 10/17/2008] [Accepted: 10/31/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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29
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Corti S, Nizzardo M, Nardini M, Donadoni C, Salani S, Ronchi D, Saladino F, Bordoni A, Fortunato F, Del Bo R, Papadimitriou D, Locatelli F, Menozzi G, Strazzer S, Bresolin N, Comi GP. Neural stem cell transplantation can ameliorate the phenotype of a mouse model of spinal muscular atrophy. J Clin Invest 2008; 118:3316-30. [PMID: 18769634 DOI: 10.1172/jci35432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2008] [Accepted: 07/09/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a motor neuron disease (MND) and one of the most common genetic causes of infant mortality, currently has no cure. Patients with SMA exhibit muscle weakness and hypotonia. Stem cell transplantation is a potential therapeutic strategy for SMA and other MNDs. In this study, we isolated spinal cord neural stem cells (NSCs) from mice expressing green fluorescent protein only in motor neurons and assessed their therapeutic effects on the phenotype of SMA mice. Intrathecally grafted NSCs migrated into the parenchyma and generated a small proportion of motor neurons. Treated SMA mice exhibited improved neuromuscular function, increased life span, and improved motor unit pathology. Global gene expression analysis of laser-capture-microdissected motor neurons from treated mice showed that the major effect of NSC transplantation was modification of the SMA phenotype toward the wild-type pattern, including changes in RNA metabolism proteins, cell cycle proteins, and actin-binding proteins. NSC transplantation positively affected the SMA disease phenotype, indicating that transplantation of NSCs may be a possible treatment for SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Corti
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Milan and IRCCS Foundation Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli and Regina Elena, Milan, Italy
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Abstract
In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), an adult-onset progressive degeneration of motor neurons occurring as sporadic and familial disease, there is emerging evidence for and against the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an endothelial cell mitogen crucial for angiogenesis, in its etiopathogenesis. Our understanding of the role of VEGF in ALS has come from studies of both experimental models and human cases. In this article, I have examined in detail the in vitro and in vivo evidence for and against VEGF in ALS, concluding that more compelling evidence is required before we can conclusively link VEGF to ALS in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivakumar Sathasivam
- Department of Neurology, The Walton Centre for Neurology & Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool L9 7LJ, UK.
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31
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Cozzolino M, Ferri A, Carrì MT. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: from current developments in the laboratory to clinical implications. Antioxid Redox Signal 2008; 10:405-43. [PMID: 18370853 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2007.1760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a late-onset progressive degeneration of motor neurons occurring both as a sporadic and a familial disease. The etiology of ALS remains unknown, but one fifth of instances are due to specific gene defects, the best characterized of which is point mutations in the gene coding for Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1). Because sporadic and familial ALS affect the same neurons with similar pathology, it is hoped that understanding these gene defects will help in devising therapies effective in both forms. A wealth of evidence has been collected in rodents made transgenic for mutant SOD1, which represent the best available models for familial ALS. Mutant SOD1 likely induces selective vulnerability of motor neurons through a combination of several mechanisms, including protein misfolding, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative damage, cytoskeletal abnormalities and defective axonal transport, excitotoxicity, inadequate growth factor signaling, and inflammation. Damage within motor neurons is enhanced by noxious signals originating from nonneuronal neighboring cells, where mutant SOD1 induces an inflammatory response that accelerates disease progression. The clinical implication of these findings is that promising therapeutic approaches can be derived from multidrug treatments aimed at the simultaneous interception of damage in both motor neurons and nonmotor neuronal cells.
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Zheng C, Sköld MK, Li J, Nennesmo I, Fadeel B, Henter JI. VEGF reduces astrogliosis and preserves neuromuscular junctions in ALS transgenic mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 363:989-93. [PMID: 17923114 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.09.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2007] [Accepted: 09/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease resulting from motor neuron loss in the spinal cord and brain stem. In the present study, we found that systemic administration of recombinant vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) significantly diminished astrogliosis and increased the number of neuromuscular junctions in a Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) transgenic mouse model of ALS. Our results thus demonstrate a novel regulatory role of VEGF on astrocytes and are suggestive of protective effects of VEGF both in the peripheral and central nervous system in the SOD1 transgenic mouse model. These findings warrant further evaluation of the mechanism(s) of regulatory effects of VEGF on neuronal and non-neuronal cells, and the relation of these events to motor neuron degeneration and the onset and progression of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyun Zheng
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
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Holmes K, Roberts OL, Thomas AM, Cross MJ. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2: structure, function, intracellular signalling and therapeutic inhibition. Cell Signal 2007; 19:2003-12. [PMID: 17658244 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2007.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 707] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2007] [Accepted: 05/08/2007] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) regulate vascular development, angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis by binding to a number of receptors. VEGFR-1 is required for the recruitment of haematopoietic stem cells and the migration of monocytes and macrophages, VEGFR-2 regulates vascular endothelial function and VEGFR-3 regulates lymphatic endothelial cell function. Over the last decade, considerable progress has been made in delineating the VEGFR-2 specific intracellular signalling cascades leading to proliferation, migration, survival and increased permeability, each of which contributes to the angiogenic response. Furthermore, therapeutic inhibition of VEGFR-2 action is now having an impact in the clinic for the treatment of a number of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Holmes
- North West Cancer Research Fund Institute, School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, University of Wales, Bangor, UK
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Gonzalez de Aguilar JL, Echaniz-Laguna A, Fergani A, René F, Meininger V, Loeffler JP, Dupuis L. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: all roads lead to Rome. J Neurochem 2007; 101:1153-60. [PMID: 17250677 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2006.04408.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent adult-onset motor neuron disease characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, generalized weakness and muscle atrophy. Most cases of ALS appear sporadically but some forms of the disease result from mutations in the gene encoding the antioxidant enzyme Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1). Several other mutated genes have also been found to predispose to ALS including, among others, one that encodes the regulator of axonal retrograde transport dynactin. As all roads lead to the proverbial Rome, we discuss here how distinct molecular pathways may converge to the same final result that is motor neuron death. We critically review the basic research on SOD1-linked ALS to propose a pioneering model of a 'systemic' form of the disease, causally involving multiple cell types, either neuronal or non-neuronal. Contrasting this, we also postulate that other neuron-specific defects, as those triggered by dynactin dysfunction, may account for a primary motor neuron disease that would represent 'pure' neuronal forms of ALS. Identifying different disease subtypes is an unavoidable step toward the understanding of the physiopathology of ALS and will hopefully help to design specific treatments for each subset of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose-Luis Gonzalez de Aguilar
- Inserm, U692, Laboratoire de Signalisations Moléculaires et Neurodégénérescence, Université Louis Pasteur, Faculté de Médecine, UMRS692, Strasbourg, France
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